REDFIELD – The Aberdeen Christian girls’ cross country program started its season off with a fifth place finish while the Aberdeen Roncalli squads took strong steps forward in their second race of the season at the Redfield Invitational Thursday afternoon at Fisher Grove Country Club in Redfield.

The Knights put all three of their scorers in the top 25 of the girls’ race led by Grace Steger in 18th place. Kathryn Steger finished in 22nd place, followed by Rachel Beaner in 25th.

Christian coach Livia Inches noted that it was a solid start to the season for her squad.

“The kids have been working really hard,” Inches said. “We’ve been doing little things like lifting and hip circuits and ab workouts. They’ve put in some really tough workouts, doing mile repeats on the hills (at Richmond).”

That work has translated into several personal bests across the board, including several junior varsity runners.

“They all did a really good job,” Inches said.

On the boys side, Lincoln Kaiser ran the JV portion of the race, though Inches noted he will move to varsity races going forward.

“I think it was a really good first meet,” Inches said. “I’m excited to see what we can do in the future.”

For the Cavaliers of Roncalli, Thursday’s meet was about taking strides forward. Roncalli began its season Monday in Milbank.

Roncalli finished ninth overall in the girls’ team race. Boys team scores were unavailable.

Paul Gutenkauf was the top runner for the Cavaliers in the boys’ race, finishing 18th overall. He was followed closely by Matthew Peterson, an eighth-grader.

“He’s really been coming around strong,” said Roncalli coach Brady Lesnar. “We’re really happy to see what he’s been doing.”

Garret Griffin also ran for the Cavaliers, finishing 34th overall as he continues his dual sport season with football.

Addison Cassidy was the top finisher for the Cavalier girls, followed by Paige Schmidt and Sarah Schmidt.

“They competed hard on a hot day,” Lesnar said.

Lesnar noted these early meets are more about setting the team up for success later on in the season.

“I’m happy with where we’re at,” he said. “Just looking forward to the season.”

To see complete meet results, click on the following link:

https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/211456/results/all